On the go
The GLA 200 brings with it an enhanced
2.2-litre turbodiesel, revised for efficiency chiefly with work done to ease
friction and it gains fourth generation common rail technology with higher
pressure solenoid valve injectors. With a variable geometry turbo, the 2.2 is
hardly stressed making 100kW and 300Nm. With its low boost pressure and reduced
friction, it's responsive, and revs nicely but the ultimate punch is
underwhelming. The torque suffices, and is on stream at 1,400rpm, but the GLA
fails to dip below 10sec for the 0-100km/h run. On the flip side, it's super
economical, rated at 4.3L/100km on average while we saw averages in the high
sixes on test, which is still outstanding economy. Merc's own seven-speed
twin-clutch is much improved in operation here compared to the experience we've
had in the A-and B-Class vehicles running this 'box. It takes up smartly, like
a proper twin-clutch unit should, and no longer draws out the shift procedure.
There are three transmission modes; Eco suffices for town duties but Sport
seems tuned for tackling the Nurburgring, it's too much, so best to use the
manual mode and the standard fit paddles if the need takes you.
The
GLA’s rear seat base is flat, though legroom is decent and headroom just
sufficient for 180cm occupants
However, it’s an easy win for the Volvo
here. It’s not as economical mind, rated at 5.2L/ 100km, with low nines being
more likely day to day, but it is so much more powerful. The five-cylinder has
a decent warble to its operation, and the torque really flows from the 1,700rpm
mark. A tad more lag is to be expected, but then the Volvo pulls a comfortable
two second gap over the Mere when covering the two performance trials we
measure. The Volvo comes with 'torque vectoring', the front brakes used to help
limit wheelspin and torque steer. A good thing too as this2.0-litre TDI works
the front wheels hard. There is some torque steer here, simply because it has
more torque then the Mere, which feels underwhelming in comparison. The Volvo's
six-speed auto is the more refined operator overall, particularly when creeping
around at parking speeds, but the twin-clutch does have an extra ratio, helping
economy overall.
The
Volvo’s rear seat is suitably sized for two adults
Dynamics are probably low on the list of
buyers of these cars but if you're interested, here too the Volvo dominates. It
has a more connected chassis whereas the GLA likes to isolate the driver from
the road. The Merc's steering requires a necromancer's touch in order to
illicit any feeling and therefore needs the odd adjustment mid-corner to keep you
online. The Mere pushes into understeer earlier too, it can't lock onto a line
as well as the Volvo, which has the better body control and its steering
delivers better feedback. The Volvo romps better Cross Country, the suspension
more adept at soaking the bumps than the AMG sports springs on this GLA. The
Merc's ride is acceptable, but not as sorted as the Volvo's, which is also
quieter at speed too.
The
Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 CDI is powered by a 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel
engine
Practically speaking
The size of these two will be the maker or
breaker for buyers. They might be just the right size for some, others will
find them too small. For those who want the essence of an SUV in a smaller
package fit for the city, they'll be perfect. In that regard, while they have
five seats, four is a better fit, and even then they are quite cosy. Neither is
particularly roomy in the rear, the Volvo only slightly more comfortable, but
its boot is too small with a mean opening. The GLA's cargo hold is not overly
generous either, but.is better shaped and slightly bigger.
Upfront, the GLA has more of a raised
seating position but it’s a cramped cabin with a narrow footwell which sees
your left knee hard up against the centre console and the other banging against
the door handle. The seat too is narrow, and too hard, unlike the comfy Volvo
chairs. Neither has great rear three quarter vision with chunky C-pillars, and
while both have reversing cameras, the GLA has a small screen and the camera
doesn’t provide a wide viewing angle, so you literally only see what’s directly
behind you. The nav system is basic compared to the Volvo’s although the
Swede’s multi button interface for the infotainment system is vexing at times.
A proximity key should be part of both car’s standard specification.
The
Volvo’s engine is breathtakingly charismatic
Which one wins?
The Volvo is better value with a more
appealing interior that imparts a more premium fell. It’s also a more
convincing drive, with better performance. The boot is too small but that’s the
only area where it lags behind the new GLA. Expect the GLA to outsell the V40 C
however; it does have a more desirable badge.
